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When Lord Rama killed Ravana, he instructed Vibhishana to perform Ravana’s last rites. Why honor an enemy this way? Because performing last rites is a separate duty from the act of punishment. Similarly, Prahlada did not take it upon himself to punish Hiranyakashipu. He prayed to the Lord and left the authority of punishment to the divine.
Punishment is always the prerogative of those in higher positions of authority. Even if one witnesses a crime or accident, taking justice into one’s hands is wrong, as it leads to further legal complications.
Bhishma and Dronacharya, while opposing the war morally, fought for the Kauravas because it was their duty as warriors. They acted under royal command. A soldier may personally feel that a war is unjust, but fulfilling the duties of battle is their obligation. This distinction between personal opinion and professional responsibility underscores the harmony of individual ethics and societal order.
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~ Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sri Puthige Sri Krishna Matha
Participate in the ‘Koti Gita Lekhana Yajna’Gita Mandir, Udupi
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